This episode kicks off the Reset and Rise summer transformation series with the Joyful Practice Challenge . You’ll explore simple prompts designed to help you reconnect with presence, boost effectiveness, and bring more curiosity, calm, and creativity into your practice. If your playing has felt heavy or disconnected, this is the reset you’ve been looking for. If you're ready to hit the ground running come September, Practicing for Peak Performance is your blueprint. This step-by-step course giv...
Jul 01, 2025•26 min•Season 7Ep. 229
In this episode, we explore one of the biggest mindset blocks musicians face: the belief that you're not ready. I break down why waiting for readiness keeps you stuck and how taking action before you feel 100% prepared is often the key to growth. You'll learn: · Why “I’m not ready” is usually fear in disguise · What it really looks like to take action before you feel prepared · How top musicians move forward despite uncertainty · Simple mindset shifts that lead to clarity, confidence, and moment...
May 27, 2025•20 min•Season 7Ep. 228
In this episode, we explore why overthinking and fear take over in performance, even when you’re fully prepared. You’ll learn what’s really happening in your brain under pressure, why trying to fight fear often makes it worse, and what you can do to build trust in yourself again. If you’ve ever felt like your own mind is your biggest obstacle on stage, this episode is for you. And if if you’re tired of second-guessing yourself and ready to start performing with confidence and calm, join us insid...
May 22, 2025•22 min•Season 7Ep. 226
In this episode, I explore one of the most important (and most avoided) questions musicians face: Is investing in yourself really worth it? You'll hear: How to tell the difference between an expense and an investment The hidden cost of staying stuck Why self-investment often leads to faster, deeper growth Real stories from clients who hesitated and what changed when they said yes The mindset shift that helps musicians build lasting progress If you’ve been feeling like you’re doing everything you...
May 19, 2025•18 min•Season 7Ep. 226
In this episode, violinist Nikki Chooi shares how he rebuilt trust in his playing after formal training, refined his approach to practicing, and found balance between precision and expression in performance. We talk about: How to blend slow and fast practice effectively The role of “adversity training” in audition preparation Practicing musicality with intention What changes when you stop chasing perfection and start trusting your process Why adaptability and balance are essential to long-term g...
May 16, 2025•45 min•Season 7Ep. 225
You’ve practiced the techniques. You’ve done the mindset work. But when it’s time to perform, everything seems to disappear. In this episode, I explore why musicians often struggle to access what they know under pressure and what to do about it. You'll learn: Why your tools vanish in performance, even when you know they work How over-focusing on control can disconnect you from the music The real difference between skill prep and pressure prep One small, practical shift to help you reconnect with...
May 09, 2025•26 min•Season 7Ep. 224
If you’ve ever felt stuck, even though you know what to do, this episode is for you. I’m sharing the five key prompts from The Musician’s Edge Challenge that have helped hundreds of musicians gain clarity, uncover what’s holding them back, and perform with more confidence. In this episode, you’ll explore: A moment when your playing felt effortless and what it reveals about your potential A strength you’ve been underestimating and how to lead with it The real challenge that keeps showing up under...
May 08, 2025•25 min•Season 7Ep. 223
In this episode, I share a personal story about preparing for a major event—and struggling to find joy in the process. We explore: Why it’s normal to feel disconnected from familiar repertoire How to stay motivated when the spark is gone A mindset shift to help you keep showing up Practical tools to bring freshness back into your practice How reconnecting to your purpose can carry you through challenging times If you’re ready to build consistency, confidence, and performance readiness without th...
Apr 18, 2025•21 min•Season 7Ep. 222
In this episode, bassist and educator Nina DeCesare shares the mindset and strategies that have helped her build a confident and fulfilling career in music. We explore what it means to practice with purpose, prepare for high-stakes performances, and create lasting change in the industry. Nina also talks about the Artemis Bass Initiative and how it’s supporting women and non-binary bassists through mentorship, training, and community. You’ll hear about: Her take on representation, mentorship, and...
Apr 04, 2025•45 min•Season 7Ep. 221
You’re putting in the work, but something’s not clicking when it counts. Why does your playing still feel inconsistent—even though you’re practicing hard? In this episode, I’m bringing two essential mindset and training shifts to the forefront—because these are the mistakes that keep talented musicians stuck, and the changes that help them finally break through. We’ll cover: Why “more practice” isn’t the answer if you’re still struggling under pressure The missing piece in most musicians’ practi...
Mar 27, 2025•24 min•Season 7Ep. 220
Many musicians feel stuck in a single career path, believing that success means following a traditional trajectory. But what if true success is about expanding, not staying locked into one role? In this episode, tubist Jarrett McCourt shares his journey from performing with world-class orchestras to building a career and life that align with his values. We discuss: Why career pivots aren’t about quitting but about growth How redefining success can lead to more fulfillment The role of mental heal...
Mar 21, 2025•54 min•Season 7Ep. 219
You practice, you prepare, but when it’s time to perform, your confidence vanishes. Why does this happen? In this episode, we break down the biggest myths about confidence that might be holding you back. You’ll learn: Why confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build How common misconceptions make confidence feel harder than it needs to be A simple mindset shift that can help you feel more secure in your playing Listen now and start building real confidence in your music-m...
Mar 14, 2025•16 min•Season 7Ep. 218
In this episode, violinist Nancy Zhou shares her deep, thoughtful approach to music-making. She explores: How interpretation goes beyond technique to storytelling The importance of score study and stepping into the composer’s mind How body awareness and movement shape musical expression What musicians can learn from dancers and storytellers The philosophy behind her upcoming album, Stories (Re)Traced Nancy’s insights will challenge the way you think about practice, performance, and artistic grow...
Mar 07, 2025•48 min•Season 7Ep. 217
Struggling to see results from your practice? In this episode, we uncover why traditional practice methods often fall short and how a simple mindset shift can unlock real progress. What you’ll learn: The biggest mistake musicians make in the practice room How judgment blocks improvement and what to do instead A mindset shift that makes practice more effective What top musicians do differently to gain an edge If you’re tired of feeling stuck and want a practice approach that actually works, let’s...
Feb 27, 2025•20 min•Season 7Ep. 216
Have you ever felt like you’ve outgrown the career path you once dreamed of? In this episode, I sit down with Kate Kayaian—career and mindset coach, podcast host, and author of Beyond Potential . We explore how musicians and creatives can reassess their careers, redefine success, and reignite their passion for their craft. Kate shares her own journey of stepping away from a traditional classical music career, debunking limiting beliefs, and creating a career aligned with her values. We discuss: ...
Feb 21, 2025•56 min•Season 7Ep. 215
More hours in the practice room don’t always lead to better results. In this episode, discover a simple, science-backed 3-step method to make every practice session more effective—without adding extra time. You'll learn how to: Use priming to sharpen focus and set clear intentions Implement micro rests to improve retention and prevent mental fatigue Leverage Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR) to lock in learning and maximize progress Try this approach for just one week and see how much more you accompli...
Feb 14, 2025•14 min•Season 7Ep. 214
Why do you sound great in the practice room but struggle on stage? In this episode, we explore: Why performances feel so different from practice How your nervous system reacts under pressure The key mistake musicians make in preparation A five-step method to perform with confidence Learn how to bridge the gap between practice and performance so you can play your best when it matters most. Ready to take your playing to the next level? If you're tired of second-guessing yourself on stage and want ...
Feb 07, 2025•17 min•Season 7Ep. 213
In this episode, we tackle the common challenge of losing momentum with your goals. Whether it’s the start of the year or halfway through a big project, staying on track can feel overwhelming. I share three key strategies to help you: Build confidence and trust in your ability to follow through. Develop small, impactful habits that keep you moving forward. Revisit the fundamentals to create a strong foundation for success. If you’ve ever felt like giving up on a goal or need a reset to regain yo...
Jan 24, 2025•30 min•Season 7Ep. 212
In this episode, I introduce the Power Reset Ritual—a simple, 5-step tool to help you calm your mind, regain focus, and reconnect with your power when you feel stuck or overwhelmed. What You’ll Learn: How the Power Reset Ritual was created and how it works. The 5 steps to calm your nervous system, ground yourself, and take actionable steps. Why this ritual can transform your moments of frustration into clarity and empowerment. Try the ritual today and see how it works for you! Book your free con...
Dec 20, 2024•15 min•Season 7Ep. 211
Feeling overwhelmed by endless tasks and to-do lists? In this episode, I introduce the Eisenhower Matrix, a simple yet powerful framework to help you prioritize effectively and regain control of your time and energy. What You’ll Learn: Why not all tasks are created equal and how to focus on what truly matters. The four categories of the Eisenhower Matrix: Do Now, Schedule, Delegate, and Delete. Practical examples to help you apply this framework in your career, personal life, and musical journey...
Dec 13, 2024•45 min•Season 7Ep. 210
In this episode, I share how gratitude can transform the way you approach music. We’ll explore: Why gratitude isn’t just a feel-good concept—it’s a powerful mindset for growth. How gratitude shifts focus from frustration to possibility. Real-life examples of how gratitude boosts motivation, builds resilience, and fosters confidence. Plus, I’ll walk you through a quick 3-minute gratitude exercise that will supercharge your practice and performance. Book your free consultation with Renée HERE Down...
Nov 28, 2024•19 min•Season 7Ep. 209
Feeling stuck in your musical career? In this episode, we’re tackling how to make clear, confident decisions that move you forward. We’ll look at why we avoid making choices, how to break through the fear, and simple strategies to pick the path that’s right for you. I’ll share real examples musicians face every day—from auditions to career changes—to help you make decisions that bring you closer to the life you want. Book your free consultation with Renée HERE Download the transcript from this e...
Nov 15, 2024•35 min•Season 7Ep. 208
In this episode, I sit down with cellist Zlatomir Fung to explore the art of practice, mental resilience, and building a sustainable life in music. We discuss: The importance of mastering fundamentals and balancing them with complex repertoire How to achieve flow state on stage through curiosity and deliberate preparation Strategies for managing intrusive thoughts and staying grounded in high-pressure moments Insights into creating a fulfilling, purpose-driven career in music Tune in to gain pra...
Nov 01, 2024•55 min•Season 7Ep. 207
In this episode of the Mind Over Finger Podcast, I share four pivotal sentences that completely shifted my perspective, challenging deeply held beliefs and unlocking new levels of growth and creativity. These insights helped me overcome limiting beliefs and embrace life’s complexities. If you’re interested in exploring how powerful thoughts can create meaningful change in both personal and professional spheres, this episode is for you. Book your free consultation with Renée HERE Download the tra...
Oct 18, 2024•33 min•Season 7Ep. 206
In this inspiring episode, trombonist Sasha Romero, principal trombone of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, shares her incredible musical journey from Texas to the Met. Sasha talks about her early musical memories, the challenges she faced along the way, and the importance of mindful practice. She opens up about managing ADHD, balancing work with life as a performer and educator, and her unique approach to audition preparation. Sasha also shares her advocacy for the transgender community and off...
Oct 04, 2024•57 min•Season 7Ep. 205
In this episode, we dive into a key feeling that can help you break free from autopilot mode and approach your goals with intention. I discuss: Why many of us fall into routine and how to shift away from it How this feeling drives purposeful action and long-term success Real-life examples from Olympians, musicians, and entrepreneurs who use this mindset to achieve their goals Practical steps you can take to cultivate this feeling and apply it to your personal and professional growth Listen now a...
Sep 20, 2024•33 min•Season 7Ep. 204
In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Molly Gebrian, who has just released her new book, Learn Faster, Perform Better: A Musician’s Guide to the Neuroscience of Practicing. We discuss: The science of learning and memory in music practice and performance The role of errors in learning Internal vs. external focus in performance The power of mental practice and personalized routines The benefits of using a timer and recording device in practice The importance of taking breaks Tune in for ins...
Sep 06, 2024•48 min•Season 7Ep. 203
A particularly important episode of the Mind Over Finger Podcast with guest Lara St. John where we discuss the context and impact of sexual abuse, the lack of representation, and how women often don't get the support they need. Lara shares her own experiences and she stresses the need for institutions to step up and create a safe space for everyone by being transparent, and having clear steps to handle sexual harassment and assault. Finally, we touch on the power dynamics and gender issues in th...
Jun 28, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Season 6Ep. 202
Want to escape Stuckville? Unsure how to move forward? Having trouble making decisions? This episode is for you! In this episode, I tackle the reasons why we often feel stuck and share strategies to get unstuck. We explore five core elements that keep us anchored in place: Lack of clear vision and goals Spiraling in regrets and fighting the present Fear of making decisions Worrying about judgment from others Perfectionism holding you back More importantly, I share actionable insights on how maki...
May 17, 2024•27 min•Season 6Ep. 201
Curious about the mission behind Mind Over Finger ? For this special 200th episode, my coach Jennifer Rosenfeld conducts a role reversal and interviews me! We discuss my journey from performer to coach and businesswoman, why I launched the podcast, and my ongoing mission as a content creator. Additionally, we cover: My perspectives on performance anxiety and finding joy in music through mindfulness The pursuit of creativity and mastery in music Personal growth, trauma, empathy, and support And m...
May 10, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Season 6Ep. 200
